Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Science Honours in Microbiology

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences

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Purpose and Rationale

As indicated in the overall degree statement, our Microbiology program is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in biological sciences, with a particular focus on the study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protists.

The curriculum emphasizes the following key skills and knowledge required in the discipline of Microbiology:

  1. Understanding of Microbial Taxonomy and Diversity: Students will learn about the classification of microorganisms, their evolutionary relationships, and the wide diversity of microbial life forms. This knowledge is essential for identifying and characterizing various microorganisms in research and clinical settings.

  2. Molecular Biology Techniques: Students will be trained in essential molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA sequencing, and gene expression analysis. These techniques are crucial for studying the genetics and gene expression of microorganisms.

  3. Microbial Physiology and Metabolism: Understanding the metabolic pathways and physiological processes of microorganisms is essential for studying their growth, survival mechanisms, and interactions with their environment. Students will learn about key metabolic pathways, nutrient uptake mechanisms, and energy production processes in microorganisms.

  4. Microbial Pathogenesis and Host-Pathogen Interactions: Students will explore the mechanisms by which pathogenic microorganisms cause disease in hosts, as well as the complex interactions between microbes and their host organisms. This knowledge is crucial for developing strategies to prevent and treat infectious diseases.

  5. Microbial Ecology and Environmental Microbiology: Students will study the role of microorganisms in natural ecosystems, their impact on environmental processes, and their interactions with other organisms. This knowledge is important for understanding microbial diversity, nutrient cycling, and bioremediation processes.

  6. Diagnostic Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology: Students will learn about the methods used to isolate, identify, and characterize pathogenic microorganisms in clinical samples. They will also study the principles of antimicrobial susceptibility testing, epidemiology of infectious diseases, and infection control practices.

Overall, our Microbiology program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles, techniques, and applications in the field of Microbiology, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate understanding of the Microbiology with particular reference to the areas of bacteriology, virology, microbial-ecology, molecular biology and environmental, industrial and health related microbiology and advanced knowledge, insight in the areas of cell biology, recombinant DNA technology, the theory of microbiological technology and general principles of microbial genetics including nucleic acid replication, transcription, translation, mutation, DNS repair, regulation of gene expression, conjugation and transduction.
  2. Use advanced practical skills in the areas of cell biology, recombinant DNA technology and microbiological technology### and practical skills in modern techniques, including radio isotope technology, cell culture techniques, microscopy and protein separation, in order to isolate nucleic acids and perform standard in vitro manipulations associated with DNA cloning such as gel electrophoresis of nucleic acids, restriction enzyme digestion, legation and bacterial cell transformations, and be familiar with the theory of current methods in genetic manipulation.
  3. Develop skills to investigate phenomena related to Microbiology and demonstrate an understanding of the changing and contested nature of knowledge in science, and in particular basic skills needed in conducting original research to completion.
  4. Work effectively in a team to investigate and report on Microbiological phenomena.
  5. Be able to effectively handle the literature in specialised fields of Microbiology, effectively communicate scientific information verbally and in writing and be conversant on general current topics in the field of Microbiology.
  6. Demonstrate effective and responsible use of safety, health and environmental issues while practising both in the laboratory and the field, and in particular advanced general laboratory skills in microbiological environments.
  7. Use knowledge from the physical, chemical and biological disciplines to solve problems across a variety of contexts. Graduates of the programme will be aware of:
  8. Different thinking and learning strategies to solve problems using learning independence and resource management.
  9. Participating in the community as responsible scientists.
  10. Demonstrating social and environmental awareness in dealing and reporting on Microbiological issues.
  11. The career opportunities available in the many fields which make up the discipline of Microbiology and their application in the community.
  12. Entrepreneurial opportunities through exposure to examples in the community, of the application of Microbiological knowledge.

Assessment Criteria

Integrated Assessment Practice: Formative

  • Practical

    • Outcome(s): 1, 4, 5, 6
    • Module(s): BM410, BM460

  • Report

    • Outcome(s): 1, 4
    • Module(s): BM410

  • Essay

    • Outcome(s): 1, 5
    • Module(s): BM420, BM430, BM440

  • Seminar

    • Outcome(s): 1, 5, 6, 7
    • Module(s): BM450, BM460

  • Treatise

    • Outcome(s): 1, 5, 6, 7
    • Module(s): BM460

Integrated Assessment Practice: Summative

  • Examination
    • Outcome(s): 1, 5
    • Module(s): All

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University
Description
Nelson Mandela University is a comprehensive university located in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions, and it is named after the iconic South African leader, Nelson Mandela. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law. It is known for its commitment to social justice, transformation, and community engagement. Nelson Mandela University strives to provide quality education, promote research and innovation, and contribute to the development of the region and the country as a whole.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.